Story perspectives

New Grooming Standards Spark Controversy Over Military Diversity

10/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced grooming standards at Quantico Marine Corps Base, declaring, "No more beardos."
The directive allows beards only for Special Forces, ignoring religious exemptions for Orthodox Jews and Sikhs.
Mikey Weinstein calls the policy an attack on military diversity.
1993 Religious Freedom Restoration Act protects religious practices unless a compelling government interest is shown; DoD has not clarified exemptions.

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Story summary

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced grooming standards at Quantico Marine Corps Base, declaring, "No more beardos."
The directive allows beards only for Special Forces, ignoring religious exemptions for Orthodox Jews and Sikhs.
Mikey Weinstein calls the policy an attack on military diversity.
1993 Religious Freedom Restoration Act protects religious practices unless a compelling government interest is shown; DoD has not clarified exemptions.